Pastor Matters

Standing in the Gap with Craig Carlisle - EP239

In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Dr. Craig Carlisle, a seasoned leader in the Southern Baptist Convention, to explore the vital role of intercessory prayer in pastoral life. You’ll hear about the origin of his prayer calendar and how it blossomed into a spiritual discipline that has profoundly impacted both his personal faith and his relationships with pastors and leaders. Dr. Carlisle’s story reminds us that prayer is not only our greatest ministry but also the fuel for healthy churches, fruitful leadership, and enduring faith. 
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu.
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.
 

Navigating Ministry Pressures as a Family with Candi and Mike Powers - EP238

In this episode of Pastor Matters, we welcome Mike and Candi Powers to discuss the challenges of navigating ministry pressures as a family. Mike, a lead pastor, and Candi, a women's life coordinator, share their personal journeys into ministry and the unique expectations placed on pastors' families. We talk through the importance of setting realistic expectations, maintaining family rhythms, and creating space for open conversations about faith. The discussion also highlights the significance of balancing ministry work with family life and the spiritual growth of their children. 
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode: 
Shepherding a Child's Heart by Tedd Tripp
Your Child's Profession of Faith by Dennis Gundersen
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu.
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.
 

Leading Strategic Change in the Church with Jeff Struecker - EP237

Most churches are running on plans, not strategy — and that’s what keeps them from truly transforming. What if a focused, biblical strategy could revolutionize your church's future?
In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Dr. Jeff Struecker, who shares how strategic change—when done right—can redefine a church’s identity. He discusses leading strategic change in the church, emphasizing the importance of a God-given strategy, dependence on the Holy Spirit, and patience in long-term vision. He shares insights from his military background and pastoral experience, encouraging pastors to pursue God's strategy in prayer. 
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode: 
The Warrior's Soul
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu.
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.
 

Understanding Connections Between the OT and NT with Benjamin Gladd and Charles Quarles EP236

This episode of Pastor Matters features a discussion with Dr. Benjamin Gladd and Dr. Charles Quarles on the intricate connections between the Old and New Testament. We explore the significance of Biblical allusions and quotations, emphasizing how these elements enrich our understanding of scripture. The conversation highlights the development of the CSB Connecting Scripture New Testament, a resource designed to help readers identify and appreciate these connections. The guests also provide practical advice for pastors on how to engage with these scriptural links to deepen their Biblical knowledge and enrich their preaching.
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode: 
CSB Connecting Scripture New Testament 
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu.
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.
 

The Evolving Role of Worship Pastors with Dr. Jonathan Welch - EP235

This episode of Pastor Matters features Dr. Jonathan Welch, Assistant Professor of Christian Worship, discussing the role of worship pastors, the relationship between preaching and worship, and how churches can develop and support worship leaders. Dr. Jonathan Welch shares his journey and offers valuable perspectives on the evolving  responsibilities of worship leaders in today's churches. We also emphasize the importance of cultivating a theology of worship and explore common challenges faced by worship pastors. 
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode: 
SBC Worship Survey
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu.
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.

The Necessity of Application in Preaching - EP234

In this episode of Pastor Matters, we explore the crucial role of application in preaching. We discuss how integrating application throughout a sermon connects God's timeless truth with our everyday lives. We share insights from our preaching labs, emphasizing that effective application begins with intentional study and understanding your congregation. This episode encourages pastors to enhance their sermons with Christ-centered application, so their congregation can walk away knowing what's next. 
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode: 
The Heart is the Target by Murray Capill
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu.
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.

Updating Church Bylaws with Dr. John Ewart - EP233

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. John Ewart, a seasoned church consultant and veteran pastor. He helps us explore the often-overlooked world of church bylaws. He exposes how outdated, weaponized, or overly complex documents create more harm than good, and explains why a fresh, living constitution can streamline decision-making, protect accountability, and reflect your church’s mission. We discuss how to balance tradition with flexibility, avoid common legal and ecclesiological mistakes, and involve the right leaders to lead this vital process.
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode: 
A New Normal: Creating Understood Value for a Revitalized Church 
A New Normal: For Missional Small Groups 
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu.
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.

Engaging Your Community with Dr. Sam Rainer - EP232

In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Dr. Sam Rainer, president of Church Answers, to discuss the concept of the neighborhood church and how pastors can better understand and engage with their communities. The conversation highlights the importance of demographic awareness and building real relationships outside the office to foster meaningful ministry. The episode concludes with encouragement for pastors to enjoy ministry, network with community leaders, and live out their faith in daily encounters, demonstrating what it means for a church to be integrated into its community.
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode: 
Know Your Community Report
Church Answers
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu.
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.

A Conversation on Humility in Ministry - EP231

In this episode of "Pastor Matters," we discuss the challenging topic of humility in ministry. We explore the fine line between using one's gifts for God's work and falling into the trap of pride. The conversation highlights the importance of staying grounded through regular engagement with the Word of God and the role of community in maintaining humility. We emphasize that this is a battle we can't win on this side of Heaven, but we can partner together to fight the battle against pride. 
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu.
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.
 

Church Budgeting as a Blueprint for Mission with Dr. Art Rainer - EP230

In this episode of "Pastor Matters," the hosts welcome back Dr. Art Rainer, founder of Christian Money Solutions, to discuss the often-overlooked topic of church budgeting. Dr. Rainer emphasizes that a church budget is not just a financial document but a blueprint for mission, aligning financial resources with the church's vision and goals. He shares insights on how to evaluate and adjust budgets to ensure they support the church's mission effectively, rather than being a relic of past priorities. The conversation also touches on the importance of building a culture of generosity within the church, encouraging pastors to view budgeting as an opportunity to advance their mission and engage their congregation in meaningful ways.
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode: 
Christian Money Solutions
8 Money Milestones
My Church Staff: Stewardship 
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at pastorscenter@sebts.edu.
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.